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2024 03 06 CC MinutesCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY STATE OF MINNESOTA Minutes of the Regular Meeting Held Wednesday, March 6, 2024 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the regular meeting of the City Council, City of Mendota Heights, Minnesota was held at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, Minnesota. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Levine called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Councilors Lorberbaum, Paper, Mazzitello, and Miller were also present. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council, the audience, and staff recited the Pledge of Allegiance. AGENDA ADOPTION Mayor Levine presented the agenda for adoption. Councilor Mazzitello moved adoption of the agenda. Councilor Paper seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 PUBLIC COMMENTS No one from the public wished to be heard. CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor Levine presented the consent calendar and explained the procedure for discussion and approval. Councilor Lorberbaum moved approval of the consent calendar as presented, pulling items H, J, K, and L. a. Approval of February 20, 2024 City Council Minutes b. Acknowledge January 30, 2024 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes c. Authorize Joint Powers Agreement with Dakota County for Natural Resource Forest Enhancement on the River -to -River Regional Greenway — Valley Park d. Authorize Joint Powers Agreement with Dakota County for the Delaware Avenue Safe Routes to School Improvements from Mendota Road to Marie Avenue e. Authorize Transfer of Funds to the Lower Mississippi River Watershed Management Organization for PCB and Other Contaminants of Concern Investigation f. Approve the Purchase of SCADA System and Lift Station Panels g. Acknowledge January 2024 Fire Synopsis h. Aeeept the R-efifement of Firefighter ■ Authorizeave 3A4nge i. . 1 Approve 44a Rivers AtWetie Asseeiation's Reqiiest for- Peftable Pitehi� Mounds •• to Busiffess Program thfough Dakota ■ Authorizepehff m. 123 Shade Tree ProgramBonding Grant with the MNDepartment ApprovalResources Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 PULLED CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS H) ACCEPT THE RETIREMENT OF FIREFIGHTER DAVE WINGE Councilor Miller stated that he has known Dave Winge and his family for almost his enfire life, providing input on his time serving the community during the last ten years. He stated that while the department is sad to see him go, he will still be a member of the community and thanked him for his service. Councilor Miller moved to accept THE RETIREMENT OF FIREFIGHTER DAVE WINGE. Councilor Paper seconded the motion. Further discussion: Mayor Levine echoed the comments of thanks and appreciation on behalf of the Council. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 J) APPROVE TWO RIVERS ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION'S REQUEST FOR PORTABLE PITCHING MOUNDS Councilor Lorberbaum noted that this item came before the Council two weeks ago and it was her suggestion to table the item in an attempt to raise addifional funds- She stated that she does support TRAA and values the service that it provides to youth in the community. She commented that she does have concern with spending funds from the special parks fund, as those funds are being depleted without a steady stream of funding coming back in. She commented that TRAA is a priority user group and therefore receives discounts on field use, noting that baseball and softball also receive waiver reductions. She stated that she did connect TRAA with the Mendota Heights Foundation, but for some reason that connection was not fully realized. She stated that there are other nonprofit groups that utilize pull tabs to generate funds to donate for purposes like this. She thought that it would be feasible for $1,800 to be raised from members and businesses in the community within the last two weeks. She commented that March 6, 2024 Mendota Heights Cary Council Page 2 of 10 she personally made a significant donation but was unaware of the amount of funding that was raised during that time. Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence replied that she does agree with the facts stated by Councilor Lorberbaum. She stated that the mounds would only be used for baseball, and they are removable which would allow the fields to remain multi -purpose. She stated that in her discussion with Mr. Crepeau on Monday, there had not been any additional donations received. Councilor Lorberbaum commented that she spoke with Mr. Crepeau on Monday, and he stated that he had not checked the p.o. mailbox and therefore would not have received her check, and others if they had been sent. Councilor Paper commented that if the motion is going to be changed, he would like the language to state up to $1,800. He stated that TRAA is the largest user group and noted that many teams and groups are currently out fundraising in the community. He stated that the mounds would be on the fields for use, and he would support up to $1,800, pending any incoming donation. He recognized the work and partnerships TRAA has done and made to reduce the overall ask to the City. Councilor Paper moved to approve TWO RIVERS ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION'S REQUEST FOR PORTABLE PITCHING MOUNDS, IN AN AMOUNT UP TO $1,800, PENDING ANY INCOMING DONATIONS RECEIVED UP TO MARCH 8, 2024, Councilor Miller seconded the motion. Further discussion: Councilor Mazzitello commented that these funds are being spent fiom the special parks fund and asked if donations would be replenished to the special parks fund. Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence replied that the donations would be received by TRAA and TRAA would make that contribution to the City. Councilor Lorberbaum encouraged residents to make a donation to TRAA for this cause. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 K) APPROVF, JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT FOR THE OPEN TO BUSINESS PROGRAM THROUGH DAKOTA COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY Councilor Lorberbaum commented that while the City has attempted to publicize this wonderful program, more attention could be given. She stated that this program is available for businesses or those wanting to start businesses to speak with an expert at no cost. She stated that there is information on the City website and within the Friday News and Heights Highlights. She stated that the program has been heavily used by residents in the other communities and hoped that Mendota Heights residents would utilize the program as well. March 6, 2024 Mendota Heights City Counetl Page 3 of 10 Councilor Lorberbaum moved to approve JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT FOR THE OPEN TO BUSINESS PROGRAM THROUGH DAKOTA COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY, Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 L) ADOPT ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE PURCHASING GUIDELINES ADDENDUM TO THE CITY'S PURCHASING POLICY Mayor Levine stated that this is one of the many things the City does that often goes under the radar. Assistant City Administrator Kelly Torkelson stated that this is an effort to further the City's progress in the GreenStep Cities program. She stated that this identifies processes that staff will review when evaluating purchases the City is making. She stated that this represents the City taking action in being more environmentally aware. Mayor Levine moved to adopt ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE PURCHASING GUIDELINES ADDENDUM TO THE CITY'S PURCHASING POLICY. Councilor Lorberbaum seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 PRESENTATIONS A) ROGERS LAKE WATER QUALITY REPORT — SAINT THOMAS ACADEMY Tony Kinzley, Saint Thomas Academy, stated that he is present tonight with students to provide their annual report on the water quality of Rogers Lake. Ben Treacy, Charlie Probst, Jackson Skagen, and Tadhgan Harlin presented their report on the Rogers Lake water quality. The presentation included information on the data and testing, the specific testing results and trends, an overall analysis of the data, and recommended solutions. Mayor Levine thanked the students for their continued monitoring of Rogers Lake Councilor Miller commented that this is one of his favorite things to be a part of each year and appreciates the effort the students put into this. He recognized that this has been a mild winter, with minimal use of road salts and minimal precipitation and asked if there is any thought as to how those things will impact the results next year. The students believed that the minimal use of road salt would improve the phosphate levels. Mayor Levine commented that the City is also transitioning from the use of salt to brine. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek provided additional information on the use of brine, in addition to salt, acknowledging that the use of brine is anticipated to reduce the amount of salt needed. March 6, 2024 Mendota Heights Caty Council Page 4 of 10 Councilor Paper asked if the report is shared with the Rogers Lake Homeowners Association, as that group has the largest impact on change. It was confirmed that the report would be shared with that group. Councilor Lorberbaum commented that this was great work and a great report. She commented that it was helpful to see the data and the comments of what should be done. She asked if there would be a next step to consult with the City or HOA to implement the recommendations. The students commented that the use of brine will likely prove helpful. He stated that the PH is likely due to some human error and will most likely be corrected next year in the report. He stated that they will also share the recommendations with the HOA to decrease the use of fertilizers and related to grass clippings. He stated that any sharing of the information the City could do in addition would be helpful. Councilor Mazzitello thanked the students for the report and thorough investigation. He recognized the improvement that has been made over the years and commented on the educational campaign that was implemented in the past and that included educational doorhangers in the area. He stated that perhaps that type of campaign could be done again, recognizing that there has been turnover in some of the home ownership in that area. Mayor Levine referenced the different results, noting that some of the things that impact those numbers seem to be related. The students commented on the impact the drought had on water levels, which could have also impacted the concentration of certain things in the lake. PUBLIC HEARING No items scheduled. NEW AND UNFINISHED BUSINESS A) REQUEST TO ENDORSE FRESH AIR FRIDAYS INITIATIVE Kirsten Ramirez stated that the Council is being asked to endorse the "Fresh Air Fridays" initiative and authorize use of City resources to promote the initiative. She presented information on climate change and her proposed initiative for the community. Councilor Paper asked if there would be a way to quantify what occurs over the summer, in terms of tracking and evaluating the data to determine the real world impact this initiative could have. Ms. Ramirez replied that one concept discussed was to have a short three question survey at the parks celebration to receive the feedback from residents. Councilor Miller commented that he loves this idea, and it would behoove everyone to lean into this initiative. He stated that he also likes the idea of tracking data as that could help to show others how this effort has provided benefits. March 6, 2024 Mendota Heights Ciry Council Page 5 of 10 Councilor Mazzitello stated that he is enamored with the mental health component of the presentation, recognizing the negativity associated with climate change. He commented that this is an effort that encourages residents to make some small changes that could have a positive impact. Councilor Lorberbaum thanked the resident for her presentation. She echoed the comments of wanting to quantify the data and what is accomplished by the initiative. She stated that perhaps something could be developed to track that data. Ms. Ramirez stated that she would be open to suggestions as most of the data would be story -related from people's experiences. She stated that perhaps this is a pilot program this year and next year there is a pre/post survey. Councilor Lorberbaum stated that perhaps there could be a feature in the Friday News quoting things that residents have done. Mayor Levine commented that this initiative would dovetail nicely with the other environmental efforts of the City. She stated that there could be other partnerships, such as adopting a drain and cleaning it on Fridays. She encouraged residents to think of those crossover opportunities. She commented that this provides more things that residents can do personally to have a local impact. Councilor Miller moved to endorse FRESH AIR FRIDAYS AND AUTHORIZE USE OF CITY RESOURCES TO PROMOTE THE INITIATIVE. Councilor Lorberbaum seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 B) AWARD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT FOR THE FRIENDLY HILLS NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENTS Assistant City Engineer Lucas Ritchie introduced himself to the Council. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek provided a brief background on this item. The Council was being asked to consider awarding a contract for professional services on the Friendly Hills Neighborhood Improvements, Project No. 202407. Councilor Paper asked if the City has worked with Kimley-Horn in the past. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek replied that the consultant has worked on many Dakota County projects, including the safe routes to school project on Delaware Avenue and is a reputable firm. Councilor Paper referenced the size of the project and asked if it would be feasible to complete the project in one construction season with St. Paul Regional Water Services, as the project would heavily depend on that entity. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek replied that on a project like this SPRWS would defer to the contractor installing the watermain, versus that being installed by their crews. He stated that iY would be tight for a March 6, 2024 Mendota Heights Ciry Council Page 6 of 10 contractor to complete this project with one crew, therefore a contractor would need to come in with two crews to complete this in one season. Councilor Paper referenced the watermain from Aztec to Apache and asked the type of disruption that would go along with that. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek replied that they would hope to use a trenchless technology for that process. Councilor Paper asked for details on construction observation and what that would entail. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek replied that it was basically the construction inspector, which would be included in the services from Kimley-Horn. He noted that person would be onsite each day from start to finish and would provide communication to residents and the City. He stated that the observer is used more for observing and coordinating rather than inspecting. Councilor Lorberbaum noted a concern she received from a resident related to the parking spaces near the hockey rink and asked if that would be included. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek replied that the parking and trails in Friendly Hills would be completed with this project. Councilor Mazzitello referenced the proposed funding sources for the project. He stated that the implemented franchise fees policy this year was meant to provide funding for infrastructure projects, therefore that could be one source of funding for the City portion of the project cost. He noted that this project was the first street project in the City's program with the current assessment policy, therefore this would be a good time to have a discussion of the assessment policy before the street projects begin to be assessed for a second time. He stated that while Kimley-Horn has not been very involved directly with Mendota Heights, the contractor has worked with Ramsey County on many projects and has a great reputation. He stated that the feasibility study will look at the economic advantages of splitting the project but noted that he would be hesitant as the bidding climate has varied drastically from year to year. He asked and received confirmation that City staff would still continue to be heavily involved as well. Mayor Levine asked if curb cut rain gardens would be offered for the project. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek confirmed that is always a part of the road projects. He stated that staff has a draft living streets policy that will be reviewed by the appropriate commissions before coming forward to the City Council, most likely in April. Mayor Levine asked the date of the last reclamation and reconstruction for the area. Councilor Miller commented that the last reconstruction was in June of 1995. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek replied that the other details would be provided in the feasibility study/report. He noted that prior to the reconstruction, there was not curb and gutter in that area. Minch 6, 2024 Mendota Heights City Council Page 7 of 70 Mayor Levine confirmed that the Council should have a worksession discussion related to the assessment policy. Councilor Mazzitello noted that the $3,500,000 expense fox the water related expenses would have been the responsibility of the City if it had not deeded that system to SPRWS. Mayor Levine echoed those comments and agreed it was one of the best decisions the City has made. Councilor Mazzitello moved to award PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ON THE FRIENDLY HILLS NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT NO, 202407, Councilor Paper seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 C) RESOLUTION 2024-08 APPROVING A WETLANDS PERMIT AT 941 WAGON WHEEL TRAIL (PLANNING CASE NO. 2024-02) Community Development Manager Sarah Madden provided a brief background on this item. The Council was being asked to consider approving a Wetlands Permit to allow the permitting and construction of a new single-family dwelling at 941 Wagon Wheel Trail. Councilor Lorberbaum asked if this action would also approve the plans for the home. She stated that it appears the garage doors are larger than would be allowed. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden replied that this action is related to the site plan relative to the wetland impacts. She reviewed the allowed garage/door sizes noting that the plans as submitted would be permissible and if the applicant desired to go above that, a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) would need to be submitted. She stated that the construction plans of the home would be reviewed through the building permit process, while the footprint of the home is considered under the Wetlands Permit process. Councilor Mazzitello commented that this property appears to have an infiltration basin while the previous property did not and asked for details on that difference. Sean Doyle, applicant, provided clarification on the garage door size. He stated that the infiltration basin was not on the previous Wetland Permit request, but had been added for the building permit application. He stated that this time they added the infiltration basin rather than adding it later. He explained that the majority of the water for the property will drain to the infiltration basin, filtering into the ground. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek provided clarification on the requirements for infiltration on the site. Councilor Paper asked if this would be something easy to maintain which would prevent the homeowner from removing it in the future. Mr. Doyle commented that there will be a maintenance agreement for that element of the property to keep it clean and free of debris. March 6, 2024 Mendota Heights City Council Page 8 of 10 Councilor Paper asked the point of the grid and the gravel proposed at the end of the driveway apron. Mr. Doyle replied that is a rock construction entrance to limit the amount of material coming and going from the site during construction. Councilor Miller moved to adopt RESOLUTION N0, 2V24-08 APPROVING A WETLANDS PERMIT TO ALLOW THE PERMITTING AND CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLING AT 941 WAGON WHEEL TRAIL, Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS Assistant City Administrator Kelly Torkelson provided an update on recent legislative discussions on actions that would limit local zoning and land use controls of the City. She stated that staff has been in contact with the City's representatives and other appropriate entities. She announced upcoming community events and activities. She also thanked election staff and election judges for their work on the Presidential Nomination Primary. �K�l�l►[NiI[K�]TIul�l►� Councilor Paper thanked the students who provided the presentation tonight, noting that the students continue to provide great reports, which is a testament to Mr. Kinzley's teaching. Councilor Mazzitello congratulated the Raiders who have qualified for the Minnesota State High School Hockey Tournament, for only the fifth time in the school's history. He commented that today is the 78"' birthday of David Gillmore of Pink Floyd. He thanked all the staff and volunteers that serve to make local elections run smoothly. Councilor Miller commented on the upcoming start to the spring athletic season for the local high schools and encouraged drivers to be cautious of the kids running along the streets in areas without trails. Councilor Lorberbaum echoed the thanks to the students tonight and their teacher for an excellent presentation. She thanked Ms. Ramirez for bringing a great idea to the city, noting that she is excited to see how that evolves. She also thanked staff and the volunteers that serve to make elections run smoothly. She encouraged others interested to apply to serve as election judges. Mayor Levine stated that spring has sprung and thanked public works for installing the pickleball nets noting that she has already seen people playing. She commented that she is proud of the City and the advocating that it does at the Capital on matters of interest. She noted that staff has testified on at least six bills during the current legislative session. She encouraged residents to stay informed about what is happening and recognize that their voices are being heard by local and state representatives. March 6, 2024 Mendota Heights City Council Page 9 of IO ADJOURN Councilor Mazzitello moved to adjourn. Councilor Paper seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Mayor Levine adjourned the meefing at 8:50 p.m. v St.1mameok Levine Mayor ATTEST: N icy B er City Clerk March 6, 2024 Mendota Heights City Council Page 10 of 10